Hurricane Melissa Hits Jamaica With Life-Threatening Storm Surge, Power Outages, Evacuations

Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm, is approaching Jamaica, expected to bring life-threatening storm surges, torrential rain, and catastrophic flooding. The Jamaican government has issued mandatory evacuation orders in vulnerable areas like Port Royal and opened emergency shelters, while residents and tourists brace for the storm's impact. Meteorological officials warn particularly about storm surges in Bluefields and Westmoreland, with large destructive waves predicted along the south coast, comparable to past hurricanes such as Michelle. The storm’s slow movement raises concerns about heavy rainfall, which could cause flash floods, rivers overflowing, and mudslides, with significant infrastructure damage anticipated. Authorities hope their emergency preparations and evacuations will minimize further loss of life as the storm moves toward Jamaica and eventually Cuba and the Bahamas. International aid agencies are coordinating with the government, which has allocated an emergency response budget to tackle the crisis.